In November 2024, a group of prominent Colombian urban artists, including Karol G, Maluma, Feid and J Balvin, released the song titled “+57”.
The title refers to Colombia’s international telephone code and the song was intended to celebrate the country’s culture and talent, but ended up being the opposite and causing a lot of controversy, to such an extent that the problem is legal.
Legal action
Shortly after its release, the song generated a strong controversy due to a line in its lyrics that mentioned: “A mamacita since I was fourteen (14)”.
This phrase was pointed out by various sectors of society as a form of sexualization and objectification of minors, which led to a series of criticisms and legal actions against him.
In response to the controversy, several Colombian citizens filed a tutela action arguing that the song violated the fundamental rights of children and adolescents, particularly their dignity and right to integral development.
Judge’s decision on Karol G and company’s song…
The Colombian Council of State, Colombia’s highest administrative court, analyzed the case and issued a ruling in April 2025.
In its decision, the court determined that the dissemination of the original version of the song, which included the controversial line, effectively constituted a violation of the rights of minors, by promoting their sexualization and reducing them to objects of desire.
The ruling emphasized that this type of content exposes minors to risks that may seriously affect their development and well-being.
Artists’ response and modification of the lyrics
Following criticism and the initiation of legal action, the artists involved took steps to address the situation.
Karol G, one of the main interpreters of the song, offered public apologies through her social networks, expressing her frustration with the interpretation of the lyrics and acknowledging that she still had a lot to learn regarding the sensitivity of certain topics.
In addition, the lyrics of the song were modified, changing the controversial reference to “fourteen” to “eighteen (18)”, in order to eliminate the allusion to minors.
Karol G y otros artistas colombianos tuvieron que pedir disculpas ante la inesperada polémica por la canción
Implications and reflections
This case highlights the importance of social responsibility in the music industry and the need to protect the rights of minors in all cultural spheres.
For the Hispanic community residing in the United States, it is essential to be aware of the content to which young people are exposed and to promote a critical consumption of music and other media.
Some recommendations for parents and guardians include:
Monitor content: Be attentive to the lyrics and messages of the songs that children listen to, encouraging open conversations about the topics they address.
Encourage critical thinking: Teach young people to analyze and question media content, helping them to identify inappropriate or harmful messages.
Support positive content: Encourage the consumption of music and other media that promote positive values and respectful portrayals of all people.
Influence of artists
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This incident also underscores the influence that artists such as Karol G, Maluma and others have on society and the importance of using their platform in a conscious and responsible manner.
Music is a powerful tool that can significantly impact the perception and behavior of young people, so it is essential that content creators consider the implications of their works.
In conclusion, the Colombian Council of State’s ruling regarding the song “+57” serves as a reminder of the need to protect the dignity and rights of minors in all aspects of society, including culture and entertainment.
For the U.S. Hispanic community, this case offers an opportunity to reflect on the content we consume and promote, and the importance of fostering a safe and respectful media environment for younger generations.
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